Public and Commercial Services Union

PCS reps across Capita have saved the jobs of several members in recent weeks.

In CRB 4 PCS members were amongst 11 staff dismissed following an investigation into allegations of falsifying work stats and avoiding work. PCS Group President John Campbell mounted a robust defence of all members, highlighting a number of irregularities that had arisen during the investigation. PCS argued that the decisions to dismiss were harsh when set against the full circumstances of the cases.

PCS is pleased that as a result of John’s hard work all 4 members were reinstated following the appeals.

Meanwhile on the Filestores contract a member has also been reinstated on appeal after PCS representative Mark Pain pointed out that management had not taken account of advice from their Occupational Health Advisor. PCS argued that had they done so they would not have dismissed the member. Again we are pleased that the employer upheld the members appeal.

Mark says “The dismissal had a bad impact on our member who was depressed and anxious about his future. He is really pleased to get his job back and says he can’t thank PCS enough for our advice and support.”

A representative from Capita told us “In this case, Capita recognised that the decision to dismiss was inappropriate and reviewed this following an appeal from the employee. Sometimes decisions are made that employees don’t necessarily agree with, and in this case the issue was addressed as part of the appeal process, which again demonstrates that Capita’s procedures are robust. It also shows that Management will address issues and the employee recognised this directly with Management.”

John Campbell tells us “These recent results demonstrate the value of PCS membership. Sometimes managers miss things or arrive at decisions that are incorrect. Our role as representatives is to make sure procedures are followed and that decisions are reasonable in the light of the facts and the circumstances. Where we believe this is not the case we will do all we can to get decisions reviewed and these successes underline how important it is for employees to have access to expert advice when they need it.”

Congratulating representatives on their achievements Commercial Sector Senior National Officer Graham Steel said “PCS representatives across the country make a difference to people’s lives. These are further examples of what they do day in and day out. We thank both John and Mark and all PCS representatives for their hard work and determination.